The Friends of Kids with Cancer Golf Tournament sponsored by Waste Management continued its tradition of combining big-time tournament style and class with the family feel of a local charity, raising over $120,000!
Despite so many golf tournaments being conducted around St. Louis, Friends has managed to stand out each and every year.
"Even after 12 years, the atmosphere permeates with a warm, family feeling," said Co-Chair Rick Lommel, who organized the event with fellow co-chair Bob Nuelle. "And it wasn't just the 90 degree heat."
Few dry eyes remained after Erin Ott, mother of cancer survivor Brian, spoke to the crowd during the dinner program about their experience, and how Friends helped them through it.
"Over the past eight years, Brian has faced chemotherapy, radiation and multiple surgeries. Friends has been there for Brian through thick and thin. But most importantly, they have given him hope, love and a chance to be a kid."
There also wasn't a dry shirt after golfers spent the day at Whitmoor Country Club's elite course, with temperatures reaching 90 degrees.
We would like to thank all of our wonderful sponsors who you see listed here, including a new platinum sponsor, Information Technologies, Inc. Dave Lommel, brother of co-chair Rick, has supported the tournament and the office with his IT services. Also, our title sponsor Waste Management provided many of the finer touches of the tournament out on the course, with recycling cans at the holes, and a dump truck style grill providing hot dogs and brats!
"Waste Management is proud to be the title sponsor benefitting such a worthy cause," said Board Member and Waste Management VP Kent Harrell. "We sincerely appreciate the professional manner in which this tounament is run. Most importantly, we are glad that we are helping the kids."
Also, our wonderful committee made this day possible. Thank you to Kelly Buchanan and her awesome auction committee, and especially to our co-chairs once again, Rick Lommel and Bob Nuelle.
